Program Overview

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Introduction to the Graduate School of Social Service

The Graduate School of Social Service at Fordham University offers a range of programs for students interested in pursuing a career in social work. The school provides a comprehensive education that combines academic coursework with field education and research opportunities.

Advanced Standing M.S.W. Program

The Advanced Standing M.S.W. program is designed for students who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) degree or completed the generalist phase of a CSWE-accredited M.S.W. program. This accelerated pathway allows students to earn their M.S.W. degree in as few as nine months as a full-time student, saving over $30,000. Fordham GSS also offers a part-time advanced standing plan of study, which can be completed in two academic years and is designed for working students.

Advanced Standing Coursework

Fordham advanced standing M.S.W. students are immediately exposed to a unique coursework structure for specialist year students. Students take one required course, Advanced Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis, and then choose seven "selectives" that align with their career interests.

Choose a Domain

Fordham M.S.W. students are also offered the opportunity to choose between four specialized domains to focus their coursework:

• Individuals and Families
• Organizations and Community
• Evaluation
• Policy Practice and Advocacy

Specialized Practice Certificates (SPCs)

In addition, Fordham offers Specialized Practice Certificates (SPCs) in two categories:

• Health
• Crisis and Resilience SPCs come with specific coursework and training that will help students stand out in the job market if they wish to pursue work in one of these areas.

Advanced Standing Field Education

Advanced standing M.S.W. students must complete one field education internship (500 hours) alongside their academic coursework. Fordham's partnerships with thousands of agencies nationwide allow students to find fieldwork that prepares them for any career they choose, whether it be in school social work, policy reform, or immigration advocacy.

Is an M.S.W. Worth It After a B.S.W.?

Completing a B.S.W. degree is an incredible accomplishment that will open doors for entry-level positions in social work and allow students to gain experience in the field. An M.S.W. degree will allow students to take the next step in their journey, increasing their compensation and skillset, and allowing them to pursue licensure.

The National Numbers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings for those with a graduate degree are $1,737, while bachelor's graduates earn $1,493 per week. This adds up to an extra $976 per month, $11,712 per year, and almost half a million dollars in a lifetime.

M.S.W. Advanced Standing Admissions Requirements

Aside from having already earned a Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) degree or completed the generalist phase of a CSWE-accredited M.S.W. program, advanced standing M.S.W. admission requirements are similar to the traditional M.S.W. program requirements.

Academics and Field Education

The Graduate School of Social Service offers a range of academic programs, including:

• Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (B.A.S.W.)
• Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
• Advanced Standing M.S.W.
• Hybrid M.S.W.
• Online M.S.W.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (Ph.D.)

Field Education

Field education is an essential component of the social work curriculum, providing students with hands-on experience in a real-world setting. Fordham's field education program offers a range of placement opportunities, including school social work, policy reform, and immigration advocacy.

Research

The Graduate School of Social Service is committed to advancing the field of social work through research. Faculty members are engaged in a range of research projects, and students have opportunities to participate in research endeavors.

Centers and Institutes

The Graduate School of Social Service is home to several centers and institutes, including:

• Children and Families Institute
• Institute for Women and Girls
• Ravazzin Center
• International Military Social Work Consortium These centers and institutes provide a range of resources and opportunities for students, including research projects, field education placements, and specialized coursework.

Faculty and Research

The faculty at the Graduate School of Social Service are renowned experts in their fields, with a range of research interests and specialties. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects and to learn from their expertise in the classroom.

Faculty Directory

The faculty directory provides a comprehensive list of faculty members, including their research interests, teaching specialties, and contact information.

Research Areas

The Graduate School of Social Service has a range of research areas, including:

• Child welfare
• Mental health
• Health care
• Immigration and refugee services
• Military social work
• International social work

Conclusion

The Graduate School of Social Service at Fordham University offers a range of programs and opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in social work. With a comprehensive education that combines academic coursework with field education and research opportunities, students are well-prepared to make a positive impact in their communities.